Childhood Dual Diagnosis: ADHD Bipolar Disorder

Testing
Testing for ADHD begins with several questionnaires—to adult family members, teachers, paraprofessionals, and school personnel who interact with the child. In addition, the child will be “monitored” by a trained professional who sits in the back of the class and views how the child interacts with others in his or her social structure. A child psychiatrist will spend time with the child (alone and with parents), and at the end, will collect data and draw an opinion based on information gathered. If there is a question of ADHD bipolar disorder, the testing may be similar, as both require observation and information to diagnose.

Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief to parents, especially if their child responds well to medication. In fact, it is often stated that if the medication is going to work, there will be a significant change in the child within the first five hours after taking it. While ADHD can be very tiring for the child and parents, the addition of a mood disorder, specifically bipolar disorder, can be incredibly frustrating. ADHD can be successfully treated with medication that needs to be taken for life. ADHD Bipolar disorder can be infuriating, especially because it is believed the mood disorder (bipolar disease) must be addressed first. The same is true for adults with the dual diagnosis, but many have a clearer focus of their own treatment and recovery.